Autism Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Autism first appears in children age three and younger. The severity of symptoms varies over a wide spectrum. Behaviors and abilities may differ from day to day; symptoms may decrease as the child grows older. Children with autism may exhibit a combination of abnormal behaviors.

Symptoms include:

Avoiding social contact

Loss of language

Using words incorrectly, changing the meaning of a common word

Gesturing frequently

Avoiding eye contact

Trouble with nonverbal communication

Lack of interest in normal activities for that age

Spending a lot of time alone

Not playing imaginatively

Not starting pretend games

Not imitating others

Sensitivity to sound, smell, taste, sights, and touch

Responding to stimulation in an abnormal way

Not reacting to smiles in the manner expected

Hyperactivity

Passiveness

Tantrums

Single-mindedness

Aggression

Hurting self, self-mutilation

Repetitive movement, such as rocking or flapping a hand

Resisting change

Forming odd attachments to objects

Sniffing or licking of toys

Not understanding other peoples' feelings and needs

Some people with autism suffer from other disorders as well, including:

Some people with autism have unusual abilities. For instance, they may memorize things or be able to play a musical instrument without lessons. Children with autism may show varying signs of cognitive impairment, but have normal intelligence. According to the Autism Information Center, children with autism may be very good at putting puzzles together or solving problems, but instead have trouble in other areas like talking or making friends. Autism, a group of developmental disabilities caused by abnormality in the brain, is a highly individualized disorder.

Diagnosis

Doctors who specialize in autism will observe the child's behavior, social contacts, and communication abilities. They will assess mental and social development and ask parents about the child's behavior. Some doctors ask parents to bring in videotapes of the child at home.

Tests may include:

Neuropsychological tests

Questionnaires and observation schedules

IQ tests

Medical tests to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms may include: